Eastertide is Coming Up

Are you ready for the Easter-Passover holiday season?

Easter is a Christian holiday celebrating Jesus’ resurrection from the tomb. Jesus rose on the third day after his crucifixion on a cross at Mt. Calvary as described in the New Testament of the Bible. Easter is preceded by Lent, a 40-day period of fasting, reflection, prayer and repenting. The last week of Lent is called Holy Week and it contains Maundy Thursday commemorating the Last Supper as well as Good Friday, which commemorates the crucifixion and death of Jesus. Easter is followed by a 50-day period called Eastertide or the Easter Season, ending with Pentecost Sunday which refers to the ascension of Jesus into heaven.

The Easter holiday is a moveable feast, meaning it is not fixed in relation to the calendar. Easter is the first Sunday after the full moon following the northern hemisphere’s vernal equinox. The date of Easter therefore varies between March 22 and April 25. Christianity bases its calculations on the Julian Calendar.

Easter is linked to the Jewish Passover by much of its symbolism, as well as by its position in the calendar. Easter customs vary across the Christian world, but decorating eggs is a common one. In the United States, customs such as egg hunting and the Easter Bunny extend from the church and are considered secular.

Whatever your customs and practices, this is a great time to see and spend time with family and friends! Happy Easter and Chag Sameach!

Editor’s note: Elizabeth Sullivan is the co-owner of , a store that specializes in gifts and decor for all occasions, including Eastertide and springtime.